susan hale thomas, photojournalist

EMOTIONS RUN DEEP

The last of the original first footers, James, left John Obey today. Ben posted a picture of James’ farewell to Facebook that brought a smile to my face and then tears. Not tears of sadness but of deep love for a people and a country. Looking at all of those faces, remembering conversations, stories and experiences. It’s not easy to let yourself go. But there, wow. How people can get into your soul. How spending a few weeks with complete strangers can affect you. Cleanse you. Recharge you. Inspire you. Initially, I was skeptical about the whole tribe thing, but after nearly three weeks immersed in this community, I completely get it.